Those wanting to enjoy a cup of coffee while reading a Japanese graphic novel will soon have an option on the city’s east side.
The owners of CinSei, Kendall and Jaleesa Ross, are moving into a new space at 32 E 13th Street following the success of their pop-up manga cafe in Over The Rhine at 1542 Pleasant Street. The new location is also in the OTR district. The owners are still assessing an opening date, but it will tentatively be in April.
CinSei only recently opened in late summer 2025 in Over The Rhine. Kendal and Jaleesa wanted to bring a manga cafe to the city as they have been fans of the graphic novels and Japanese culture for a long time. In 2024, they began a pop-up at the Pleasant Street location.
The two recently announced on social media they are hoping to “transition to the next chapter,” but need funding so they can open the space and hire staff. Their goal is $100,000, and they hope to reach that number as soon as possible to open the space.
“Reaching that number would be incredible but CinSei’s future doesn’t depend on it. We’re building this either way. Every dollar simply accelerates the vision and goes directly toward strengthening your favorite spot for manga and matcha,” said a recent post from the owners.
Matchas and coffees are the main drinks served at CinSei. Recently, they have also served matcha cookies. As manga books are the main attraction, manga books are both sold in-store and on their website.
The new cafe will sit near the corner of E 13th and Walnut Streets, across from Homemakers Bar. This is a few blocks south of their current location, so it will be a short move for the owners. Locals reported on social media that Coffia in OTR had closed about a year ago.
What Now Columbus has reached out to the owners, and this article may be updated.
